First glimpse of Dudley Market transformation
These are the first artist impressions showing how an historic market place will be transformed as part of a £6.7 million project.
New stalls, canopies and paving lighting will help breathe new life into Dudley Market.
Two images have today been released by Dudley Council showing views from both ends of the market place to give shoppers a glimpse of how the area will look when work is completed next year.
The project includes the relocation of the Duncan Edwards statue to a more prominent place at the New Street end of the market.
The first phase of work, which includes the laying of new stonework, began in Castle Street in January.
The next stage will see the new market stalls constructed.
John Millar, director of the urban environment, said: "This next phase of the scheme will start to build a picture in people's minds of what the new market place will look like once complete.
"Our aim has always been to create a clean, modern and attractive space, putting Dudley's historic market place well and truly on the map."
Next month market traders will be relocating to temporary stalls near the fountain, with overspill at Stone Street Square.
From May 27, there will be a new traffic arrangement in the town centre.
Entry to and exit from the events area, between the fountain and Stone Street, will be via Stone Street only. Vehicles will not be permitted to drive through the market place and exit via New Street.
Also, from the last week in May, shoppers will be able to use certain parts of New Street for parking.
New Street, Castle Street and Fisher Street remain closed to through traffic for the time being.
New signs will also be installed, directing shoppers to alternative bus stops in the town centre.
Mr Millar said: "We want our long standing shops, businesses and traders to thrive as well as attracting new ones.
"Temporary operational changes are necessary due to the complicated and detailed nature of the project but we will continue to try and keep inconvenience to a minimum.
"I would like to thank shops, businesses, residents and shoppers for their continued patience during this time."
